PS 3503 
.075 06 
1911 
Copy 1 



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Class JHiLl^il3 



Book__A>I^^ 
Copyright N^_____ 



COPYRIGHT DEPOSIT. 



O PHIEL 



O P H I E L 



TALLI J. BOUKNIGHT 




New York and Washington 

THE NEALE PUBLISHING COMPANY 

1911 






Copyright, 1911, By 
TALLI J. BOUKNIGHT 






CI.A2D2S24 



OPHIEL 



OPHIEL 



"Black robed, and standing tall in solemn majesty 

Before an altar high, where flowers pure and white 

Entwined with palms that bend in adoration sweet, 

Amid a priestly throng of soldiers of the King 

Most high and beautiful, — forever thou a priest 

According to the order of Melchisedec, 

Whom mighty God exalts above thy fellow man, 

His woe in time to share. His sorrow dark as night. 

Now consecrated to His sacred heart that beats 

In gratitude and love for thy devotion deep. 

On thee His mantle rests. His armor on thee bound. 

Go forth to battle with the Enemy of man, 

Who, seeking to devour, assails the innocent. 

Thy hand, if faint at times, shall gain the victory; 

For thee the Prince of Heaven in glory will defend 

And guard thee in the battle and the time of death." 

As sweetest solemn music in the air at morn. 
As clear as silvery bell, these words descending came 
Where at a golden altar of the holy church 
Sebastian raptly stood in contemplative love. 
Upon his youthful form, serenely beautiful 
And undefiled soul, the ceremonies pure 
Of holy ordination had but lately fallen 
In splendid solemn pomp and papal dignity. 

7 



OPHIEL 

Sweet consolation, bringing to a trembling heart, 
As angelus bells afar at day's dark ending peal. 
The low seraphic music of Saint Michael's voice 
Was heard diminishing in cadences afar, 
As o'er the hills the bugle notes of shepherd boy 
Grow fainter in the sunset glow. Sebastian knelt 
And offered up anew his heart to God in Heaven. 

Although the day was one containing all the joy 
Of brightest new-born Spring and many blooming 

flowers. 
At evening came, in sudden wintry manner, swift 
In dreadful melancholy, chilling winds that blew 
The glowing flames of many tapers. Wildly leaped 
Sebastian's heart, o'er which a vague foreboding crept 
Of future ill and martyrdom to undergo. 
As low before a golden crucifix he knelt, 
Unseen by him a black and wildly wind blown form 
Of evil entered o'er a high arched window near 
And hovered low in dreadful darkness half obscured. 
As full grown youth in red barbaric dress arrayed. 
His sensuous form adorned with dark terrific wings. 
His face that once was beautiful, in torture wrung. 
He reached long, stained arms in mocking gesture 

wild 
Toward the earthly one who knelt in holy fear 
Where pure white lilies bloomed upon an altar high. 

Below on Hell's dark throne that morn had Satan 

raved. 
By man defeated, by his loathsome subjects scorned. 
For years he'd striven for Sebastian's snowy soul. 
But now it seemed in vain was all his evil art. 
In dreadful frenzy had he summoned from afar 
Dark Ophiel, the tried and trusty fallen one, 

8 



O P H I E L 

Who many a soul had ruined of mortal innocent. 
By demon oath he was commissioned secretly 
To Hades' fiery depths to lure the stainless soul 
Of him new consecrated to the Sacred Heart. 
At Satan's bidding swiftly had the dark one flown 
From out the frightful gate of Hell to wailing earth, 
Upraising in his hand a crimson poisoned dart, 
Anticipating soon to degradation low 
With sinuous arms to drag his victim's snowy soul. 

But now he paused in fear of God's adored One, 
And, folding sable wing and flowing mantle close, 
Astonished gazed upon the silent worshipper. 
The rapt expression of whose face entranced him. 
Star-sweet against the gloom of shadows deepening. 
It seemed above temptation, pure and angelic. 
How like the face of one, it seemed to Ophiel, 
Who ages long ago had smiled in Paradise 
And decked him with a crown of never fading 

flowers, 
Who played with him, a child in sweet companionship. 
By silvery running stream where grew the tree of 

life: 
But swift, in frenzied pain, his evil nature rose 
In cruel deep desire; but all in vain he strove 
From demon tortured mind and heart soon to efface 
The memory of that day in holy Paradise 
That, after countless years of slumber, now awoke 
And shone as smouldering coal in flameless brazier 
Blown softly by magnolia perfumed winds of Spring. 



II 

The first far roseate hues of early Autumn dawn 
Had scarce begun to tint the silent star-dimmed East 
When Indian chieftain, on a sleepless bed of pain, 
Arose and pulled aside the curtains dark that hung 
Within the doorway of his wigwam. Misty, faint. 
Below him dimly lay a lily-bordered lake. 
Extending far to bank where eastern line of trees 
Resembled castles of a land beyond the dawn; 
And near a mighty pine rose tall and solemnly, 
As column standing lone of some mysterious ruin. 
Its green and murmuring branches seemed to touch 

the sky. 
Deserted, ancient, dark and awe-inspiring lay 
On either hand a dim and gloomy forest way, 
O'erhung with trailing vine and sombre Spanish moss ; 
And nearer, in a grove of stately solemn oaks 
The little wigwams of an Indian village stood 
Serenely beautiful and quietly prosperous. 

By age and many fevers wasted, wan and tired. 
Revealing scars of battles fought and bravely won. 
The still, unfolding beauty Miccanope watched 
Of light which came through hours weary, long de- 
sired. 
The misty east now seemed afire with dusky red 
That gleamed within the dreamy waters of the lake 
As fire of Tophet kindled in dread realms below, 
Then slowly changed to gold that lit the western sky. 
Victorious proclaiming advent of the morn. 
In languor moved a gentle lily-scented breeze 

10 



O P H I E L 

That scarce perceptibly transformed the golden lake 
To misty changing hues unknown and beautiful. 
Afar from shore of pines, whose gloomy silhouettes 
Rose darkly on the east's increasing radiance. 
Entrancing came the notes of huntsman's solemn 

horn 
That smote in pleasure wild the chieftain's listening 

ear. 

But at another sound, less audible and near — 
By Miccanope turned a waiting, eager ear. 
As from the curtained portal of adjacent tent 
There swiftly came a maiden young and beautiful. 
In strange barbaric robe of white and gold adorned. 
The chaste and many folds extending down to earth, 
Where sandaled foot was seen upon the fallen 

leaves, — 
She seemed an Indian flower blooming in the morn, 
Whose golden loveliness would fade with evening 

tide, 
Unplucked by mortal hand and chaste as morning 

star. 
To waste no more its sweet and charming innocence 
Upon the rude and inappreciative earth. 
Her eyes were as the purple violets that bloom 
Along the forest way in fragrance of the dawn, 
And gleam with hope impearled by early morning 

dew. 
Her modest steps were swift and graceful as she 

came. 
And in her voice the music of the wilderness, 
Awaking new from slumbers of the lonely night. 

" O father, thou hast passed the long and dreary 
night,— 

11 



O P H I E L 

Behold in yonder radiant east its glorious end. 

So mayest thou hope when dark and fleeting life is 

o'er 
To pass into such glory from this wilderness 
And greet with joy in golden gleaming hunting 

ground 
My mother and thy dearest kindred gone before." 
As gentle Hope, she paused beside the warrior, 
Who, broken down with years, in trembling tones 

replied : 
" My Tuscawilla, little one, more beautiful 
Than thy mother was ; fairest princess on the earth. 
My heart is soaring like an eagle's to that land, 
But scarred and red my hands with blood of warriors 

slain. 
And sin, regretted now, as heavy burden down 
Bears grievously upon my faint and weary soul 
And strives to press me down where yonder scarlet 

fires 
Are burning darkly in the bottom of the lake. 

" My lovely daughter now, whose heart is pure and 

white 
As yonder lily opening in the morning light, 
O lift for me thy tender, supplicating voice 
Unto the Mighty One whose spirit-throne on high 
Is greater than the light of yonder golden sun. 
If He but hear thy beauteous voice in mercy raised. 
And see the glistening tear for me in anguish wrung 
From heart of innocence that beats confidingly. 
Perchance on me forgiving mercy will descend. 
And, in His pity, loving eyes may rest on me. 
By many fevers wasted and the grief that burns: 
In condescension maybe He will lift from me 
This dreadful woe that bears me down and ever down, 

12 



O P H I E L 

With leaden sable wings, to unresponsive earth, 
So cold and pitiless. O pray for me to Him, 
That I may be released from woeful bitterness 
And those who ever seek my soul's unending death ! '* 

** My dearest father, stay thy bitter tears awhile. 
This very fading night in strange and wondrous 

dream 
I saw my mother. Silently she came and stood 
Within the doorway of my little white hung tent. 
I thought she drew aside the curtain noiselessly, — 
Whereupon a light more radiant than the noonday 

sun 
Descended bright, and I was blinded for awhile. 
My mother's voice, commanding, bade me raise my 

eyes; 
And looking far, I saw the boundless, eastern sea 
In silvery radiance of the crescent moon above. 
In beauty flowing wide. Upon its bosom lay 
A strange unearthly ship that seemed a mighty swan 
With folded wings beneath a starry azure sky. 
Above it gleaming shone a wondrous lady bright. 
Whose robes were whiter than the orange bloom in 

Spring; 
Her snowy hands extended far, in loveliness ; 
Her peaceful, holy smile was brighter than the dawn. 
And she was crowned with silver gleaming moon and 

stars. 

" And as I looked, she turned and smiled on me in 

love. 
And for awhile I lost the vision in her smile; 
Again it came, but then in darkness only lay. 
I saw a white, wave-beaten strand in loneliness. 
Where weirdly stood, black-robed and tall, a holy 

man, 

IS 



O P H I E L 

Who_, gazing out to sea, saw, lit by silvery moon, 
The wondrous barque of man ascending to the stars. 
To desolate and lonely wilderness he turned 
A face as white as lily bloom in summertime, — 
But not alone; there seemed a form mysterious. 
Composed of sombre night, which followed in his 

steps ; 
Of which he seemed aware, for oft a golden cross 
He lifted to his lips, which seemed to move with 

words. 
Steadfastly to the west he bent his hastening steps 
And vanished where the palm leaves border ocean's 

shore. 

" Then soft I heard my mother's voice commanding, 

low, 
As wind in stately murmuring pine, pronounce these 

words : 
' Give welcome to a messenger of Spirit Great; 
An audience lend to one by Queen of Heaven sent.* 
Then I awoke. These words were sounding in my ears 
While unto thee, my father, fever spent, I hastened. 
But see across the waters blue and rippling how 
The golden clouds are white and sun-emblazoned all, 
How in his majesty the god of day appears! 
O Great and Holy One, — whose mighty hand con- 
trols 
The splendid sun, the earth, the stars that lately 

shone. 
The crescent moon whose silvery light revealed to me 
The wondrous vision of a Lady crowned with stars, — 
Look down with pitying eye on these thy children far, 
Who cry to Thee for aid, in their affliction deep, — 
Let mercy's light on us descending be as great 
As all our hope and trust in Thee, most mighty God ! ** 

14 



Ill 

On either hand the forest stretched of stately pine, 
Of tall palm tree and many long and clinging vines; 
The way led through an open field of golden flowers, 
Where brightly plumaged birds flew near in song to 

greet 
A stranger darkly robed who came through wilder- 
ness. 
But one, grey-hued, surpassed them all, and seemed 

to change 
Their feeble notes to one delirious song of joy. 
" Now God be praised for such a beauteous para- 
dise," 
And, in His name, Sebastian blessed the lovely scene. 
And held aloft a crucifix of pearl and gold, 
Which brightly gleamed. It was the one that long 

ago 
His mother gave to him, when tears refused to cease 
When from his home departing, — cherished treasure 

long 
Upon the wall of cottage humble had it hung 
Through all his childhood, and would guard him 
until death. 

In all the morning, far, through strange, majestic 

wood. 
He, wandering, saw no sign of man except the fear 
Of wildwood animals, which fled before his steps. 
Now wearily down amongst the flowers he sank to 

rest, 

15 



OPHIEL 

And leaning on the base of tall and stately pine. 
Amidst the brown and golden colors of the wood, 
Above the blackness of his priestly folded robe. 
In sorrow shone his dark and blue appealing eyes 
And lovely face, as white as purest lily bloom 
Save for the slightest tint of red on either eheek. 
With care, and down upon a bed of golden flowers. 
He laid the treasured crucifix of pearl, and looked 
With holy face and clasped hands up to the skies. 
Where great white clouds that seemed dim mountains 

ever changed. 
And in magnificence, retaining all their calm. 
Moved slowly in the Autumn sky as if to flee 
Some strange and far invisible portent of ill. 

In stealth, from where the palms were growing thick, 

advanced 
An Indian warrior, — Winnemoca, young and brave. 
His lithe strong limbs were of dull hue like burnished 

gold. 
Unclothed save for a broad and crimson girdle wound 
About the center of his perfect youthful form. 
Uj)on his arm a bow in curious fashion swung. 
And crimson arrowpoints upon his girdle hung. 
Three scarlet feathers upright in his flowing hair 
Were ornaments to head and princely countenance. 
Advancing silently, he pressed down the flowers 
As noiselessly as shadows creep upon the light. 
Ere long, Sebastian smote his breast in fervent 

prayer. 
When, swift as startled deer, the youth commenced 

to flee. 
Then paused, awhile his courage gaining to advance. 
At last he touched the stately pine and trembling 

stood 

16 



O P H I E L ' 

In silent wonder by the golden crucifix: 

Then forth^ within the startled vision of the other 

He stepped, with murmuring sound like that of forest 

stream, 
iWhich chokes at pleasant turn by many bending 

reeds. 
On him Sebastian smiled and stretched inviting hand; 
Then softly spoke to him, who, trembling and 

amazed. 
Bowed low amongst the flowers, as strange and wild 

as he. 
In love the good one blessed his trembling suppliant. 
Then gently bade him rise, and strove his fear to 

stay. 
As Winnemoca in his dreams had ne'er beheld 
So fair a one, and deeming him inhabitant 
Of far off azure sky, come down to visit men, 
And fearing that he might in some strange manner 

flee. 
He caught the chain that hung down o'er his sombre 

robe 
And passed through brown and stained fingers one by 

one 
The little beads which hung upon a circling chain 
Until he reached the end where lay in shadow dim 
A cross as black as robe of him who stood and smiled. 

Awhile he gazed in adoration of the wild 
Upon the little figure, representing pain. 
Unknown to him, and suffering inexpressible. 
In childish fear the youth upraised inquiring eyes 
To him who stood observing with a quiet air. 
Who in the other's eyes the question gently read 
Of why the crucifix and such in emblem made. 
And lifted solemn hand toward the smiling sky. 

17 



OPHIEL 

But Winnemoca, fearing lest his visitor 
Should rise, returning to celestial realms above, 
Secured the sacramental chain encircling him, 
And loosed it not for gentle hand or voice nor smile 
Persuasive, but, as if in fear of punishment. 
He pointed to the downward path that led away 
From flower field to forest dark and terrible. 
Sebastian lifted from the earth his crucifix. 
And on the stalwart shoulders of the other laid 
His holy burden brought from o'er the eastern sea. 

Together thus they journeyed on, the savage youth 

O'er joyed, anticipating soon to greet his tribe. 

The chieftain and his daughter, o'er the province 

queen. 
In strange barbaric manner at his captive smiled, 
Believing him an angel from the azure sky. 
And uttering tender cries in exultation weird. 
Sebastian, comprehending not the language wild. 
Grew peaceful and contented, for he gladly knew 
That in the hands of Love he was a prisoner. 
'Twas thus at eventide they came through gloomy 

shade 
Of dark sequestered forest to an open place 
Where rested peacefully a little Indian town 
Beside a rippling lake that far extending lay 
Beneath the fading sun, on western horizon. 
Which glowed in flaming awe upon a prominence 
Of sombre scarlet cloud in color deep arrayed. 
Which seemed to darkly stain the Autumn sky with 

blood. 

Awhile they paused to look upon the scarlet scene. 
As darkly glowed the sun through great majestic 
pines, 

18 



OPHIEL 

As sentinels arrayed behind the distant tents, 
Which rose in circling lines around a central one. 
Which proudly stood at base of overshading tree. 
As mountains in the distance, clouds of dusky red, 
Threw o'er the mournful scene a weird, unholy light, 
And red the waters of the lake Oconee glowed. 
Until it seemed a scarlet sea of smouldering fire 
Wherein uncanny gnomes of underworld held forth 
In mystery their rites of punishment and dread. 
Ascending slowly, smoke of early kindled fires 
Reflected in deep color woe of sunset sky. 
While peacefully, within their habitations low. 
Each family congregated at the close of day. 
Partaking of their food and night's refreshing sleep. 



Advancing then, they paused and listened by the 

door 
Of central wigwam, wherein, lying fever spent,' 
The chieftain of the flock committed to his care 
In gloom and sorrow mingled held his trembling 

sway; 
And entering softly found him from a slumber waked. 
Sore troubled and distressed at frightful feverish 

dream. 
From bending o'er her father, Tuscawilla rose. 
And, watchful ever, passing fair to look upon. 
In questioning her eyes were bent upon the youth 
And on his captive, pale, white, unfamiliar one; 
Then, slowly recognized him as the stranger bright 
Beheld in clear-remembered vision of the morn. 
A joyful cry escaped the chieftain's trembling lips, 
Who, turning to his daughter, wonderingly proclaimed 
The swift fulfillment of her strange, prophetic dream 
In words that softly fell in music weird and sweet: 

19 



O P H I E L 

** As welcome as the flowers of Spring to desert 

earth 
Art thoUj fair visitor from unknown regions high. 
Turn beauteous eyes on me again, for now it seems 
As though from Paradise a ray escaped and gleams 
As splendor glorious of early morning ray 
Upon a lone and swiftly fading cloud of night. 
From regions far beyond the blue ethereal sky, 
Welcome, — thy coming by a messenger foretold. 
Perchance thou hast a remedy, O stranger bright, 
For that dark woe which dwells within my aching 

heart. 
Consuming all my life as dreadful leprosy. 
If thou canst stay its might, all that I have is thine 
In compensation for so great a benefit. 
Now look upon me with those pitying eyes again; 
They seem an angel's in my dreams of long ago 
When I, a little child in innocence, was led 
Through many wildwood paths where fragrant 

flowers grew. 

"Prepare reception great, befitting such a guest; 
Go, bid the mighty warriors come in regal state, 
Before their chieftain here to welcome stranger fair. 
Command them to adorn with robe and color bright. 
For in thanksgiving shall this joyful night be spent. 
Now has a messenger come down from Spirit High 
To guide us home to land that's incomparable. 
Where dwell the beautiful beyond the earth's dark 

sky. 
Beyond the suffering of this life mysterious." 
Departing at his bidding, Winnemoca left 
The low-hung tent the while with many glances 

back 
Of love and admiration for the sombre one, — 

20 



OPHIEL 

While Tuscawilla, lovely daughter of the chief. 
Was proudly standing by her father's lowly bed, 
And with expression downcast bent, as if to shield 
The wasted one who lay before her from all harm. 

Sebastian saw them moving gracefully and heard 
Their gentle words ; but, comprehending not, he knew 
His coming was with peace; so with uplifted heart 
He rendered grateful, silent thanks to God in 

Heaven; 
Then, turning, saw the chieftain's aged eyes on him 
Were fixed, mysterious, and smiling, as the child 
Who, wondering, some object of delight beholds. 
But dimly seen and strange, yet pleasing to the 

sight. 
Arising then, the old man beckoned earnestly. 
To a seat on lowly hide-strewn couch of stone and 

fur. 
And tenderly Sebastian raised his wasted form. 
Supporting it with little cushions strangely formed. 
And dyed in curious and in varied coloring; 
Then by his side sat down, repeating o'er and o'er 
The simple words, by gesture illustrated much. 
That he might understand the language of the other. 

In darkness standing, Tuscawilla, with content. 

So quietly watched them that her presence in the 

shade 
Was not remarked by those who in the fading light 
Held pleasing conversation, partly understood. 
In prayer inaudible her heart went up to God: 
" From out the depths we lately cried to Thee, O 

Lord, 
And mercifully hast thou hearkened to our plea; 
No more in darkness and in death's oppressive shade 
21 



O P H I E L 

Our wandering be, but life's transcendent light shall 

fall. 
O let Thy glorious face from us no more be turned, 
Give us Thy grace our mournful hearts to purify; 
By prayer of yonder Queen of Heaven, glorious, 
In dream of splendor seen, and crowned with flaming 

stars. 
Let mercy on us evermore descending be 
As great as hope and love of those who cry from 

earth 
Unto Thy majesty unspeakable on high." 

Returning, Winnemoca hastened joyfully. 
And in his footsteps came a mute and solemn throng, 
Who, entering, one by one, were warriors of the tribe. 
With strange barbaric, hasty, springing step they 

came 
And bowed before their chieftain deferentially, 
In rustic awe beholding stranger wonderful. 
With white extended hands, who blessed each kneel- 
ing form. 
And called from Heaven down on them the grace of 

God. 
They formed a semi-circle round the two who ruled 
In different manner o'er the earth mysterious ; 
They placed a calumet within Sebastian's hand, 
New lighted and containing fragrant, powdered herb. 
And in a solemn silence smoked the pipe of peace. 
Until the night had fallen darkly o'er the lake ; 
While in the distance, gleaming by the tented door. 
Glowed early kindled fire and red, descending moon. 
Which half revealed the forms of those who waited 
there. 

Awhile beside her father Tuscawilla stood 

22 



P H I E L 

In shadows deepening, the scene of peace beheld; 
Then silently within the coming night withdrew, 
The joyful news to tell to old, beloved one, — 
Olate, foster mother, faithful, true and tried. 
Who dwelt in gloomy tent beside an awful wood, 
Where sounds arose and ghostly phantoms roamed at 

night. 
Within the light of flickering fire she found her, and. 
In tones melodious, the praises poured forth 
Of stranger fair and holy from the skies come down. 
Olate, listening darkly, called to jealous mind. 
Through many an evil year, the ancient prophecy 
Foretelling darkly subjugation of her race 
By men of paler countenance from eastern skies 
Who would her people drive in battles to the west; 
And, frowning more, she wove, as sombre mantle grew 
By dusky hands, her dreadful dark and evil thoughts. 



2S 



IV 

The time as swiftly fleeting shadow hastened by. 
The hunter's moon, which shone in scarlet crescent 

form 
When first Sebastian came, had grown continually 
Each passing day, until in splendor glorious 
It rose a flaming sign of woe in evening sky. 
Then all the little children crept in terror forth 
From curtained doorway at their mothers' wailing 

cries. 
And stared in wonder to the east, wliile warriors 

stood 
Apart and told of strange and direful things to pass. 
In haste to Little Father, as they called him, then 
Unto Sebastian ran, where he in fervent prayer 
Before an altar knelt, of stone, and rudely made. 
Wlio at their troubled cries, excited gestures wild. 
Arose and looked toward the east; and, as he stood, 
The fiery moon, ascending, lost its dreadful hue. 
And paler grew and smaller in the Autumn sky. 

Returning to their wigwams in thanksgiving deep. 
The Indians' confidence more in Sebastian grew, 
And their afflicted chieftain, hearing silently. 
The wondrous story told to him, — Obedience 
Was rendered by the moon to holy visitor — 
Divined the time propitious, guided by the stars, 
To assemble in a council solemn all his tribe 
With holy priest, the way and manner to devise 



O P H I E L 

The workmanship required to build a temple high, 

Wherein to worship God with action suitable. 

By his daughter's willing hands the summons were 

prepared ; 
In haste, with joy she bound the arrows dark and red 
In tiny folds of panther's streaked and spotted hide, 
And sent them forth by Winnemoca, gladly borne. 
Who at her bidding paused not in forests wild. 
But hastened on delivering his messages 
To many warriors with a ceremonious hand. 

With haste, but in exquisite rustic beauty soon, 
A little church of God was raised in wilderness; 
By sturdy hands were hewn the forest timbers high. 
And placed by skilful hand to form an arched dome; 
An open doorway in the eastern wall was formed. 
And near the tall, majestic pine, which stood as tower, 
O'erlooking palm grove and the tranquil azure sea. 
While at the west the stones were heaped in even 

lines. 
To form an altar, stately, rude, and incomplete; 
In northern wall was made a narrow window high 
That looked to wide, unfrequented and gloomy wood. 
Upon the earthen floor, by many children trod. 
The snowy shells were brought from distant sombre 

strand 
And strewn in form of holy cross, which was o'erlaid 
With sparkling sands transported from the eastern 

shore. 
Which lay beyond the sunny lake of Oconee. 

All was completed when the bright and golden moon 
Of falling leaves and wailing wind had waxed large. 
Sebastian told of Little Child of Bethlehem, 
So innocent and pure, who long ago was bom 

25 



OPHIEL 

In stable lowly, of Virgin, immaculate. 

And bade them all prepare to commem'rate the birth 

Of God, in love and mercy from His throne on high 

Descending to redeem His creatures of the earth. 

In eagerness were searched the forests for their green, 

And palms were brought and on the altar placed with 

care. 
Where shone the Holy One, surrounded by the light 
Of many burning tapers, lit by hands devout; 
Where little children came and knelt upon the sands. 
With tiny, clasped hands and dark uplifted eyes. 
Repeating o'er the supplications taught to them, 
With many a repetition, soft and lovingly: 
And o'er the changing scene of worshippers within, 
Of holy reverence and subdued joy without. 
Lay, inexpressibly, a radiance of peace. 

Reclining peacefully beneath the ancient pine. 
The preparation watching, Miccanope saw 
The smile of joy his daughter gave in passing by. 
In earthen vase she bore the fragrant lilies white. 
Obtained from sunny lake, in little swift canoe. 
Within the distance plaintively he heard the song 
Of Winnemoca; saw him resting on the wave 
That slowly rippled, in the trembling, red canoe. 
Which darkly gleamed in light of far-off winter sun. 
In sadness down the youth on his reflection gazed. 
Which shone inconstant, weird in silent watery deep; 
About his shoulders strong a golden mantle hung. 
And on his princely head a wreath of holly lay. 
Whose crimson berries formed a martyr's future 

crown. 
He slowly waved a hand, a dusky unclothed arm. 
Encircled by a golden bracelet quaintly wrought. 
Across the calm but rippling surface of the lake, 

26 



OPHIEL 

In weird accompaniment to strange and mournful 
song: 

" What hidest thou, unfathomed depths of blue, 
Unanswering chilly wave, reflecting but the hue 
Of endless sky above ? In vain I seek the days 
Of rapturous summertime, when all the forest ways 
Were strewn with golden flowers and the fleeting 

hours, 
Like shining arrows sped into a forest maze. 

My Tuscawilla, little one, I wait for thee. 

Here, on the bosom of thy fairest Oconee, 

Which lies so tranquilly, and, moaning for its queen, 

Is glowing sombrely in sunlight's wintry sheen; 

My heart imploreth thee again to drift with me 

In little red canoe among the lilies green. 

No more my voice is heard, no more its pleading falls 

On lover's willing ear. The oriole that calls 

The note she fondly knew is heard no more, no more. 

In yonder holy hall I see a beauteous throne 

And one upon the floor who bendeth to adore 

The Sacred Presence there; and I am left alone." 



27 



That night Sebastian came and knelt^ his heart with 

joy 

O'ereome, alone within the church erected new. 
The golden winter moon shone down from starry 

sky 
And lit, through spacious door^ Sebastian's kneeling 

form 
While he, in contemplation sweet, reviewed the days 
Transpiring since his steps had trod the wilderness. 
With difficulty he had learned the Indians' tongue, 
And they had listened eagerly to words of love; 
To obey his least command they hesitated not; 
And in the morn they were expected to receive 
The holy sacrament which giveth life to man. 
To strengthen them in battles for their God above. 
Not all, for one, a woman aged and terrible, — 
Olate, foster parent to the sachem's child. 
With penetrating eye, had coldly turned aside 
And, mocking, laughed in scorn when those who 

plead with her 
Alleged condition happier than gloomy life. 

Above the dim and stately throne Sebastian hung 
His golden, shining crucifix; adjacent stood 
The holy vessels of the altar gleaming bright. 
" O gracious God, how can I thank Thee for Thy 

love. 
Extended down to these Thy people newly found, 
For Thou hast brought us forth from all eternity, 

28 



O P H I E L 

Redeeming us with precious blood, and laying down 
Thy life, and still Thy loving favors all endure. 
O what return I make for all Thy benefits ! 
Here is my life, my all, given anew for Thee ! " 
And, falling prostrate on the ground, Sebastian lay 
In loving adoration, thankful and profound. 
Above, in moonlit window, evil angel form, 
In scarlet splendor, deeply contemplated him. 
The lowly worshipper, with strange indifference: 

For oft in hours of the dreary night and long 

Had Ophiel into his tent as robber come. 

And near the sleeping form on couch of stone and 

fur. 
Despite the cry of little angel guardian; 
And brought an evil dream that, ending dark. 
Had left the dreamer sad and fearfully cast down. 
When once the guardian innocent in fear drew back 
Dark Ophiel lay down upon the wintry couch 
And twined about the sleeping one his sinuous arm. 
Temptations sweet proposing to his troubled ear. 
With rapturous tenderness his breath on snowy brow, 
As flame destructive from the very mouth of Hell. 
** Sebastian ! " the little guardian angel cried, 
" Awake ! " and he, half waking, felt the dreadful 

weight 
Of evil at his heart, and made the holy sign 
Of cross invincible, and at the murmured sound 
Of one brief holy word, from troubled heart and 

lips, 
Ophiel arose and fled, that night to return no more. 

This woeful night to Hades Ophiel had sped 
In hatred, fear, o'er dreary desert ways that lead 
To portal strong and hideous in smouldering light. 
29 



O P H I E L 

When to the council chamber dark and lone he came, 
Upon him Satan frowned^ demanding, terribly. 
His full account, and when before him it was spread, 
He raved in wildest frenzy of demoniac: 
"How negligent has been thy service, traitor, slave; 
For here I see no mortal soul set down for Hell, 
And him thou wast dispatched to overthrow^ — in 

peace ! 
Unfaithful knave, of vile neglect thou guilty art. 
Ho ! Slaves, come bear me to the land presided o'er 
By this accursed, and we shall drag unhindered now 
The race allured from me, back to allegiance. 
And bind with strong and burning chain the feeble 

will; 
And thou, O trusted one, shall rue thy negligence 
In darkest pit of punishment when I return/' 



SO 



VI 

Beneath a gnarled oak, black, bowed, and weather 

rent. 
Upon whose ancient and decaying branches hung 
In tendrils gray the Spanish moss, Olate stood 
In black and frowning with malignity of death 
Upon the gentle radiance of the early morn. 
Her dusky face and darker eyes were filled with 

fear, 
And oft she muttered low, then shrieked in frenzy 

loud 
And held aloft unfolding fingers of a hand. 
Which strove in vain to clutch the hazy, dancing 

light 
That sifted through the silent branches overhead. 
Behind her lay the marshy wood, and overgrown 
By many tangled vines and jungle grasses tall. 
While in the distance higher, where the village stood, 
Composed of solemn tent and peaceful holy church, 
A dreamy morning mist had risen o'er the gloom 
And through the early light in gladness streamed 

down. 

Afar, and blue, the tranquil glimmer of the lake 
Could scarcely be discerned for many forest trees 
And broken grasses of the marsh, and mosses low. 
In voice sepulchral, " Woe am I ! " Olate cried, 
In hoarseness scarcely human, sounding by the 
marsh : 

31' 



OP HIE L 

" The fools ! — they all have listened to the witching 

voice 
Of this persuasive blue-eyed stranger white and frail. 
But I to his deceits remain superior. 
He thinksj, a charlatan, my kinsmen to befool; 
But soon with him will vanish this devotion pale. 
With greater zeal to bloody dance and sacrifice 
Will they return, O then with olden revelry. 
The darksome forest ways deserted now will sound, 
When here, within accustomed place, the shrieking 

voice 
Uplifts again its cry to angry demon god. 
And crimson flows avenging blood from deadly 

wound. 

" Returning soon to brief, relinquished customs, 

they 
Will cast aside the holy spell that binds them now. 
For what has this intruding one to give for all 
That he has taken from us } — Not eternal life. 
For that delusion rose from out the heart of man 
And finds no principal in things material. 
The God who made the heavens and the earth so 

dark, 
O where is He, the mighty one who ruleth all, 
Who gave the feeble eye that never Him beheld? 
And if there be a God beyond the heavens blue. 
Beyond the demon god, why does He not appear, 
Not stand as if afraid in some deserted place? 
Ah no, there is no God, for of my beauty dark 
He would have been enamoured, to my tent come 

down ! 
In vain their pleading with me to believe and bow; 
In their devotion but poor childishness I see. 
O give to me the blood of human sacrifice, — 

32 



O P H I E L 

The god whom I have served and serveth until 
death." 

Then, with a dreadful cry, she moaned in frenzy 

low, 
As brighter shone the sun through misty morning 

cloud. 
Afar the sound of Indian voices came in praise: 
"Hosanna! Hosanna ! the highest to our King; 
To Thee in adoration gratefully we bring 
Our hearts, in love, and all we have this Christmas 

day. 
O little One, look down and be our light and way." 
The voices nearer came ; Olate, now in fear, 
Drew back as shadows fly from sunlight hastily, 
For in the distance a procession slowly came. 
The smallest children first were holding tapers 

bright 
That lit with holy light the shadowed forest aisle; 
Then other children, larger, robed in white, ad- 
vanced 
Within Olate's view as, crouching low, she lay 
Enveloped in the gnarled shadows of the oak 
And muttered curses dread and maledictions low. 

Then maidens beautiful and youths with clasped 

hands. 
With eyes uplifted to the smiling, dreamy sky. 
In dim and mystical procession came to view; 
And warriors for their chieftain who had battles 

won, 
Together with their gentle, meek, and humble wives. 
Advanced beneath the canopy of forest gloom 
Before their aged ruler, Miccanope, who was 
Supported by his gentle daughter's golden arm, 

33 



OPHIEL 

And Winnemoca, tall and strong and beautiful. 
Sebastian came the last with white^ upraised hands. 
Surrounded by the children bearing incense sweet, 
And many golden torches leaping in the air. 
With slow and solemn step they came in holy song 
To purify the place of human sacrifice. 
At length a pause was made where rose the scarlet 

stone 
Beside the marsh and gnarled tree, where close upon 
The shadowed earth Olate lay in writhing fear. 

When all the broken stone and places round about 
Were purified with water and the censer's flame. 
And mystic words pronounced to drive away all ill, 
The dim procession moved, returning joyfully 
Through brighter forest way into the holy church. 
In silence leaving bloody place of sacrifice. 
Olate viewed in consternation, shuddering. 
The holy act, and when afar the mystic light 
Had vanished in the doorway of the little church, 
She rose and shrieked for dreadful vengeance to the 

air: 
Her unbound hair was wildly clutched by frenzied 

hands, 
In fear she gnashed her yellow and decaying teeth; 
And in her dark and wrinkled countenance portrayed 
The thoughts that tear the hearts of demons in de- 
spair. 
As, shrieking wildly, through the forest way she fled. 



34 



VII 

" O glorious King of Heaven to the earth come 

down. 
This day my failing eyes have seen Thy majesty 
Unspeakable, in lovingkindness lowly veiled; 
Unto the long desired celestial hunting ground 
May I depart in peace from thee, my little one. 
My daughter cease thy weeping, if it be for me;^ 
For never since the world began, it seems, has joy 
So thrilled my heart, transforming earth's dark way 

to Heaven. 
Is this the very sombre-covered bed where pain 
Has racked so many times this feeble, aged frame? 
Thou art the same, my faithful, loving child, I 

know; 
Thy face is fairer for the tears now gleaming there. 
Is yonder smiling lake the very same that greets 
In gloom my dim, half-seeing eyes at early morn? 
O never did it seem so still and beautiful. 
As though upon its tranquil surface angels bright 
Ascended to the shores of gleaming paradise ! 

" Thou canst not know, my little one, how all the 

years 
Of woe, and filled with bitter strife, the weight of 

sin 
And grief, a heavy load, have pressed me down to 

death. 
In darkest hours of the night I heard the cry. 
The moans unearthly low, of warriors done to death 

35 



O P H I E L 

In many battles; saw their blood-stained ghostly- 
hands 

Arise in fearful night to drive away all rest; 

And also came the wailing piteous of those 

Bereaved by war's dread holocaust around them 
flung. 

They cried to me with hollow voices dread and low 

And ever strove my wandering mind to overthrow; 

But now the strong and hideous chain of black de- 
spair 

Is struck from withered wrist and all the blood is 
gone. 

So that my hands are white as newly fallen snow; 

And from my dark and bitter life the clouds of 
night 

Have rose and left a peaceful, calm and shining 
hour. 

" For I have passed into the garden of the King, 
And all the years since early childhood hours seem 
But frightful vanished dreams, remembered far and 

dim; 
Their terrors are no more, for I am loosed from sin 
By wondrous holy sacrament, from all the woe 
Of misspent davs and crimes too horrible to tell. 
I am a little child again, refined and pure, 
And thou, my gentle, loving daughter bending down 
O'er me in tenderness, art beautiful and fair. 
How can I speak the joy, the wondrous blessing tell, 
Wliich came to me this morn in yonder holy church? 
For words can ne'er portray the jylories of the King 
Whose sacred holy presence dwells imprisoned there ; 
The God of earth and highest Heaven to man come 

down 
And in his midst to dwell — I could not understand 

36 



O P H I E L 

Had I not felt it in this feeble heart, by love 
And by the angels' hands prepared to meet its God." 

The shadows of the winter evening slowly waned. 
And with the fading light the newly shriven soul 
Of Miccanope, old and fever wasted, rose 
From earthly habitation, borne by angel hands 
Afar across the tranquil willow-bordered lake. 
Upward, beyond the golden gleaming evening star. 
Upon the wasted earthly form a little hand 
With gentlest touch was laid, and tearfully a voice 
Murmured, " My father, art thou gone without a 

word 
Of parting to thy little one in darkness here? " 
His heart, it beat no more. His feeble hands were 

cold. 
A holy calm o'erspread his furrowed brow. His 

eyes 
Were closed by unseen angel hands, and all was rest. 
Save one black-robed and sobbing form that knelt 

in woe. 
And crying piteously, but not in vain, to Him 
Who only knows the secret of the comforter. 

At morn before the dawning ray a mournful train. 
By torches lit and far off cold and morning star. 
Wound in and out the forest ways to silent tomb. 
Which rested on a mound, o'erhung by mournful 

tree. 
To rest beneath the sands the warrior was lain. 
As voice of holy priest arose in solemn prayer 
O'er silence of the earth which lay in mystic sleep: 
Poor little creatures, dust to dust — O what are we 
But changing dust whereon is writ the frightful woe 
Of life, a time as fleeting as the shades of night! 

37 



O P H I E L 

And when the end is come^ what recompense the 

store 
Of earthly wealth, acquired by crime or otherwise ? — 
For all things darkly flee away at death's approach^ 
In judgment leaving us to stand before our God 
Who gave us life that we might gain a higher goal. 



38 



VIII 

In coldness down upon the wind-swept wintry earth 
Was shining drearily the inconstant moon of woe; 
As by the cloudy, shaded, rippling waves of night, 
In madness, broken-hearted, Winnemoca roamed. 
For bitter grief and wounded love were raging wild 
Within his youthful heart, now torn and desolate; 
And up and down beside the gleaming tomb of one 
Who long ago had stilled his feeble crying strode, — 
Beside his mother's silent, unresponsive tomb 
He wandered broken-hearted, weeping frenziedly: 
" O dearest mother, darling mother, hear my cry ! 
Unclose unto thy child the moonlit, silent tomb. 
And let me rest beside thee in thy lowly bed 
Forever, for my grievous burden bears me down! 
O, listen to my pleading, hear my piteous cry. 
As broken-hearted and forsaken, stormy, torn, 
I cry incessantly, and, lying, would be still 
Beside thee, silent, dead, forevermore at rest." 

The wind with awful sound his only answer was. 
As shrieking weirdly o'er the waters deep it went, 
" O little Tuscawilla, darling one," he moaned, 
" Forever and forever from me thou art gone. 
No more upon the moonlit, dancing waters shall 
We drift before the evening shadows fall in gloom 
To gather lilies white the altar to adorn. 
My red canoe is broken now and stranded lies; 
So is my heart, and all seems drifting to an end, — 
For thou wilt smile on me no more in dreary life. 

39 



O P H I E L 

And will the days when thou wast with me come no 

more? 
And shall I never hear thy laughing voice again? 
Nor see the bonny smile that charmed away my woe? 
O pale, inconstant moon, why mockest thou my 

grief? 
O night, thy dismal gloom cannot compare with that 
Which rends my broken heart in frenzy pitiless. 

"She smiles no more, her eyes are fixed on Heaven 

far; 
She listens but to him who came o'er lonely sea, 
To pale, angelic stranger, white, mysterious; 
And woe that I should bring the one to separate 
From me my little, bonny bride forevermore, 
Who leaveth me but breaking desolated heart. 
Shall I, a warrior brave, give up my chosen one. 
And, standing calmly, see her taken to the skies 
By stranger delicate, and not so strong as I ? 
No, no; for yon inconstant, silvery moon shall fall. 
And all the stars shall flee to realms of darkest 

night. 
Before my life's one glorious light shall upward fly. 
Deserting me to madness such as rends my heart. 
O, let the heartless waters ripple over me. 
And smile in rapture on the dreary, veiled moon. 
While I in deeper darkness lying be at rest ! " 

With look of agony to coldly gleaming sky. 

Unto the dark and mournful lake he turned away, 

As one distraught, for rest from earthly sorrow 

deep; 
But coming swiftly from the shadowed tomb below, 
Olate clutched with fingers, ghostly pale and long. 
The broken girdle of the love-bereaved youth, 

40 



OPHIEL 

His hasty action stayed, and from destruction saved. 
She cried, in deep and hollow voice, echoing, " Live ! 
For vengeance live, and speed thy feet unto the 

north ; 
For in the distance many miles reflected are 
In fiery glow the camps — thy ancient enemy. 
This night I have upon the bloody sky discerned 
The smoke arising as the serpent's changing coil, 
And have intelligence that far beyond the hills 
Kanapahate comes to war upon thy race. 
Divining that our chieftain lies beneath the sod. 

" Unto his hostile camp, and in the darkness, haste. 
Before the cold and mocking stars extinguished are ; 
And when thou art before him bronght, in frenzy 

teU 
Of this pale face, the being strange, mysterious. 
Who sways the trusting hearts of all thy foolish kin ; 
And teaching them to bow before a heap of stone. 
Which I have seen upraised from out the common 

earth. 
He bids them love the One who made the sky and 

sea. 
In substance of the maize and grapes that purple 

grow ; 
For have I not in scorn observed the maidens go 
To gather in the field this fruit to sacrifice? 
He by his incantations ever seeks to gain 
O'er us dominion, and the wealth of forest land. 
Recallest thou the olden prophecy that such 
A race would come with sword to drive us from the 

earth. 
Abolishing the freedom of the bloody rite? 

" Thy god and mine is not a cringing god of peace; 

41 



OPHIEL 

For human sacrifice and torture of the young 

He cries, for battle, murder, crime and sudden death; 

And, lo! he cries to thee, before it be too late. 

Thy country to avenge. Depart at once, and let 

Thy heart be strong. Kanapahate supplicate 

To come and take as gift for yearly sacrifice 

The stranger pale and all the golden vessels bright 

That standeth on the altar of the temple high. 

Erected by the hands of fools and simpletons; 

For Miccanope's gone, deluded by a spell, 

Thy master's dead, and thou the chief from all elect. 

Remember, 'tis the only way to gain thy bride. 

Thy little one so well beloved. So begone. 

And let thy every thought be fixed on ways to gain 

Revenge for thy deep wrong that's unendurable." 



Distraught by frightful grief, all things before the 

youth 
Appeared in crimson as a glowing sea of blood; 
As in the distance raging waters flowing heard 
date's strife inspiring voice, discordant, hoarse. 
And saw, it seemed, above her gloating, hideous, 
A dreadful demon with a scarred and bloated face; 
The bat-like wings extended terrorized his heart 
As from Olate wicked he departing ran. 
She was a frightful thing, with that o'ershading 

linked 
In deep malignity, and loudly shrieked above 
The air a witch's curse and malediction dread, 
Against all holy things, and fair, above, below; 
She was a fury by the frenzied devils torn, 
Who clawed her heart in paroxysms of their hate, 
And changed her countenance to hideous, wrinkled 

scroll. 

42 



O P H I E L 

In frenzied haste through forest path, in gloom and 

woe. 
Ran Winnemoca by the demons dread pursued. 
His heart so rent by anguish deep that it arose 
And overthrew the power of intelligence 
Awhile, and broke with fury chain of anger red. 
As blood that flowed in dark, tempestuous despair; 
And to his haunted, demon-usurped mind it seemed 
As if the Last Day's woeful ending dark had come; 
And all his raging thoughts were uncontrolled, but 

fixed 
On one unfailing aim, inspired by Satan's mind. 
As on through thicket dense and darkly covered 

marsh 
The way led far into the weirdly moonlit night. 
O'er all oppressive, dismal silence held a sway. 
Unbroken, save where rose the panther's wailing 

shriek. 
Which seemed to fainter grow at each successive 

cry. 

At length, within a gloomy, haunted wood 
Kanapahate's ghastly presence darkly burned, 
Obscured by a throng of tall and moaning pines. 
In stealth, from shade to shade of dim, unguarded 

tree. 
The youth in terror crept, until his startled sight 
Upon a scene by demon-mind suggested fell. 
No cruel torture red of Hades' cauldron deep 
Could equal that of captured warrior strongly bound 
By thong that severed deep his golden, youthful flesh 
To painted stake. Around the scarlet glowing fire 
In hideous dance inhuman forms went whirling 

round. 
The painted warriors dark in widening circles lay, 
43 



O P H I E L 

Whose evil faces gleamed in dread expectancy 
Of satiating, bloody torture soon to come. 
As coiled adders lying in a sensuous heap 
Their ghastly eyes were gleaming cold and heart- 
lessly. 

One lay apart, more dark and terrible than all, — 

Kanapahate, mighty chieftain and renovmed, 

The enemy of those who dwell in amity. 

Who as a wolf that wanders through the forest lone 

Seeketh his prey amongst inhabitants of peace. 

In darkness gleamed his eyes that seemed but made 

to gloat 
O'er bloody, conquered field of mortal pain and woe. 
And on his face was writ the loathsomeness of death. 
'Twas whispered that at deepest night, when all was 

still. 
Uncanny creatures rose from marshes low and foul. 
Whose faces with a horror frightened those who 

saw 
Them settle down as ravens round the warrior. 
And hold a dialogue, mysterious and dread. 
To him ran Winnemoca from the shadows dim 
And fell on bended knee in cringing posture low. 
So mortals e'er betray when driven by the hand 
Of demon in the rage of venomous despair. 

Increasing burned the flames of torture high and 

high 
Around the suffering prisoner, who murmured not. 
But turned appealing eyes to star that faintly 

gleamed. 
In wordless prayer. Excruciating agony 
Had wrapped him as a cloud in torture deep and 

red. 
As brighter glowed the hungry flames, in scorn arose 
Kanapahate, wrenching angrily a chain 

44. 



O P H I E L 

Of holy beads whereon a tiny cross of pearl 
In silence gleamed and radiant as the light of star 
That burned so dimly clear in beauty far away. 
From off the girdle of the youth who trembling stood 
In fear, and flung it mockingly into the fire. 
With curses deep, but in its flight it gently caught 
Upon the scorched arm of him who suffered there. 
" To fools, and such as yonder burn, let this be 

thrown ; 
But thou shouldst bear the warrior's bow and tom.a- 

hawk 
And not these women's foolish baubles, full of fear. 
Now let their substance by the willing flames con- 
sumed 
Uprise exultant over thy renouncement brave; 
•My arm thy cause shall champion and give to thee 
The just reward, — the prominence thou dost de- 
serve." 

The cruel thongs of prisoner in torture bound 

At length by writhing flame were partty loosed, and 

he 
A scorched arm extended for the holy chain, 
And, lifting up the little cross, he gazed in joy 
Upon the suffering form of one suspended there: 
" O God, this consolation I have not deserved ! 
In frightful agony I cry to Thee on high. 
My prayers heed, and show Thy face divine to me; 
Look down in tender mercy on thy tortured child. 
Have mercy, O my God, have mercy upon me! 
This torture is unending and unbearable ! 
Accept my pain and woe in reparation deep 
For all the wrong against Thee ever I've commit, 
And, when this life is ended, let Thy angels bear 
My soul to that fair land where tortures are no 

more I '* 

45 



i IX 

In highest Heaven, by an azure gleaming sea 
Supremest throne reflecting radiantly bright, 
A calm, delightful shore and fair to look upon 
Arose within the peaceful light of mercy's throne; 
Where grew majestic trees that blooming ever white 
Exalted to the sight their spotless purity; 
And amaranthine gardens covered o'er with bowers, 
The fragrant flowers falling touched the olive green 
Of sweet pastoral hill, which, sloping down to sea 
In pleasant manner, kissed the waters flowing there; 
And where the merry aspen leaves upon the air 
Which blew in early morn in silvery splendor danced, 
The sweetest music charmed an angel's listening ear. 
Who, far through changing light and screen of 

aspen leaves. 
In stately avenue of graceful cedars tall, 
Discerned a snowy temple standing far above, 
In golden glow of God, mysterious, adored. 
There gleaming, pearly steps uprose to arched stair. 
And beauteous angels, passing in and out, appeared 
As chaste and lovely as magnolia flowers sweet. 

In haste, St. Michael, glorious prince of heavenly 

hosts. 
Appeared upon the peaceful scene, and up the way. 
To dim, terrestrial gleaming throne of Paradise, 
Advanced in splendor, golden as the morning light. 
Within the stately hall were columns numberless 
And glowing white that formed majestic corridors 

46 



OPHIEL 

And stately passageways to radiant lighted court. 
To which, through shining aisles and over golden 

floor. 
The white-robed great archangel moved silently. 
Until at length he paused at entrance of the court. 
Around which glowed by two the snowy columns 

tall 
That carved from pearl were decorated splendidly. 
Within the spacious court a crystal fountain white 
Was playing in the golden glow which streamed 

down 
In mystic holy light from higher court above. 
His face so fair was troubled, and his tender eyes 
A look of newborn sorrow bore in tearful light; 
But in his movements was the confidence of that 
Authority supreme all evils to adjust. 

Beyond the fountain shone a throne of amethyst, 
Which lit by tapers such as burn on altars high 
Of earth was full of golden splendor from above. 
Upon its' azure stair a gentle Lady stood 
Who listened to the harps of seraphim below. 
Her face was fair and holy as the light of morn 
That comes in perfect peace o'er heart of penitent. 
Beyond the night of woe, of terror and remorse. 
Her long white robe was bound with simple golden 

band 
As chaste and pure as stars that gleam on holy 

night. 
And in her lovely hands a rosary of pearls 
Was clasped tenderly in prayer of mother love. 
Containing tears of mortals shed in grief below. 
She smiled as mothers smile upon their little ones 
Who feel a parent's shelter kind and loving in 
The time of peril dread or when the heart is torn; 
47 



O P H I E L 

And all who felt the radiance of her holy smile 
Bowed low in reverence, seraphic and divine. 

In holy peace and calm her dark pure violet eyes 
Beheld in joy the portal's gleaming column white 
Where glorious the prince of heavenly hosts ap- 
peared. 
Advancing, now he waved aside the seraphim 
And stood before the gentle Queen of Paradise. 
With loving genuflection, bowing low, he said: 
" My Queen, I bring to thee a message from below. 
From that far, dismal land of dark, o'erburdened 

earth, 
From which the adoration of Sebastian comes, — 
And others lately ruled by angel of the night. 
Dark Ophiel, who has in Satan's dread employ 
Become indifferent, because of love for him 
By whose good work strange mortals have been 

brought to God. 
And Him in simple manner daily glorify 
Below. All this is known; but far more serious 
The import that brings me here; for rising even 

now 
The swift destruction dreadful Satan contemplates 
Of those who have thy intercession deep implored. 

She turning with the seraph moved silently 
Across the heavenly court and snowy marble stair 
Into a garden small, where hid by olive trees 
A little cottage stood, surrounded by the flowers 
That grew at Nazareth so many years ago. 
There was the simple door as once it calmly stood 
In narrow street that led into the market place, 
The little entrance where the Lord of Heaven stood' 
A pretty child and subject to His mother sweet. 

48 



O P H I E L 

There in the garden fair the fragrant roses grew 

About a rustic arbor rudely formed to shield 

A sparkling crystal fountain from the noonday light. 

The same sweet roses hung upon a balcony 

Above, and grew about a garden seat below; 

And over all descending shone a golden light 

From unseen court above which gave a perfect joy. 

Awhile the Blessed Lady stood in silence deep, ' 
Then to the waiting seraph spoke mysteriously: 
" Resist thou not, but with thy legions go at once 
And gently bear to me each martyred precious soul 
As loosed from bondage by malicious hand of ill. 
In time prepared to meet its God omnipotent; 
But let no harm befall the sacred, earthly mould 
Of that fair Indian maid who daily cries to me: 
And if perchance thou comest near dark Ophiel, 
Whom I have never seen, but who was beautiful, — 
If he is penitent because of havoc wrought 
By evil hands, and mourn for children of the soil. 
Bid him renounce his master, crying unto God 
For mercy; for a broken and a contrite heart 
He will not cast aside, despite its bitterness. 
Then open thou the way for such as him prepared. 
And bid him swiftly enter, casting out all fear." 

With one low reverence St. Michael disappeared. 
And God's sweet gentle mother rested for awhile 
Upon the rustic seat o'ergrown with fragrant 

flowers ; 
When presently upon the marble stair arose 
A seraph beautiful with shining harp of gold. 
Who sang a hymn of earth. His glorious counte- 
nance 
Resembled lily, white and chaste and beautiful, 
49 



O P H I E L 

Which gleams in purple-tinted crimson sunset glow. 
Dark, beauteous eyes that burned as pure mysterious 

flames 
Star-sweet before an altar of the most high God, 
Where glorious angels serve in sacrificial rite, 
Seraphic eyes, resembling sunset's changing stars, 
And crimson tinted lips that veiled as ruby clouds 
The realm where snowy flowers bloom in purity 
To deck high altars of the lord of paradise; 
The eyes whose changing beauty welcomed from 

afar 
The martyred souls of earth to realm of beauty 

bright. 



50 



Before a quiet altar, burning solemnly, 
In gloom arose a scarlet flame mysterious. 
As star of old, the faithful guiding to the East, 
To where a Sovereign new-born in beauty lay. 
Supported in His mother's arms, immaculate. 
Sebastian knelt beneath the holy flame which shone 
In beauty down upon the altar, now complete. 
With palms and winter flowers scarlet glowing 

decked ; 
And ever coldly gleaming on his solemn form 
Through high and arched window shone the wintry 

moon 
O'er all inconstant with a dreary light and dim. 
Above the flower decorated altar hung 
In golden majesty Sebastian's crucifix. 
Reflecting pure and holy light that shone below. 
Within the little church was calm and holiness; 
Without, the winter wind was howling frightfully. 
As many demons raving in the stormy air. 

The holy priest upraised his voice in fervent prayer: 
** Here have I rested for awhile, O my great God, 
In serving Thee, my gracious Saviour, I have done 
Thy holy will, I trust, in all, and faithfully. 
Thy children now are all converted to Thy love; 
This place, which once was dreary wilderness to me. 
Now seems a paradise, with Thee in love adored. 
I am Thy child, to do Thy will forevermore. 
O, let me help Thee bear the burdens heaviest, 

51 



O P H I E L 

Thy painful, secret, darkest sorrows undergo! — 
And, trusting not to faint nor fall, with Thee to 

guide. 
Command of me Thy will and it shall be observed 
Unto the best of my ability, if Thou 
Be near to lend a helping hand in case I fall. 
Beloved One, the joy of all my heart, my all, — 
If I could die for Thee my life would be complete; 
To Thee I give my all: do with me as Thou wilt." 

In raptured prayer Sebastian knelt oblivious to 

The furious wind that wildly shrieked about the 

church. 
The sun had, going dovm into a sea of flame 
Within the weirdly shining west, descended late 
Through tall majestic trees which dark, as columns 

stood. 
As though portending dire and terrible event 
In bloody consternation o'er the earth to fall; 
Yet faintly shone the raging fires enkindled there. 
And high in storm-racked sky the coldly gleaming 

moon 
Shone down on wigwams closed securely for the 

night. 
No wonted camp-fire burned amid the solemn pines. 
Nor dusky forms were moving at the night's advent. 
For every Indian, in sorrow and in gloom. 
Was mourning for the buried chieftain, well beloved. 
Who never more would lead his soldiers to the war. 
Nor gently speak of life and death and holy church. 
In gloom and tent the greatest Tuscawilla lay 
Alone and broken-hearted, mourning for her lord. 

A gust of wind in fearful terror, sudden, blew 
From out adjacent forest weird and dimly seen; 

52 



OPHIEL 

As if upon its unseen current darkly borne 

Two mortal forms came prowling through the 

furious night: 
One seemed to hesitate, in piteous agony. 
And raised a tearful face toward the stormy sky: 
'Twas Winnemoca, wildly terrified and filled 
With horror for his evil action, and remorse, 
In stealth his dark companion guiding to its prey. 
The other's savage features gleamed in fitful light 
Of weird and partly hidden ray of ghastly moon, — 
Kanapahate, servant of the Evil One. 
With dread, contorted face he frowned mockingly 
Upon the terror-stricken youth, and laid a hand 
As black as hidden shadows of the deepest night 
Upon his trembling form, in threatening attitude. 
He pulled from sheath of serpent hide a tomahawk, 
And muttered low as distant thunders ominous. 

At length, as wicked thieves at night, they slowly 
paused 

Beneath the window rudely made, through which the 
moon 

Was gleaming down; but cringing, shrank as if from 
blow, 

At holy sight of white, uplifted countenance. 

*' Defenceless here thy captive is," one hoarsely cried. 

In sobbing voice distraught, and low, which seemed 
a tone 

Of bitter night's tempestuous and wild despair; 

" Advance and bind him, take the golden vessels all ; 

Depart before the coming of the winter morn, 

That none may know the woeful fate that him be- 
fell." 

In tones so deep and hoarse they seemed the wind's 
reply, 

53 



O P H I E L 

Kanapahate spoke as demon in a rage: 
" Thou Fool of Sin, to think that I should be content 
With yonder petty gold and puny kneeling one, 
For all shall satisfy the spear and tomahawk. 
And none shall live but Tuscawilla, at the dawn, 
For she so beautiful my slave shall ever be." 

With dreadful cry and speechless, Winnemoca leaned 
Against the cold and stony, unresponsive wall; 
Kanapahate, saw with fiendish smile and slow. 
From out his scarlet colored sheath a poisoned dart 
Release, and, with an evil, burning eye, upraise 
And poise it with a careful aim, in scarred hand. 
For words to cry a warning to the innocent 
And unsuspecting one in adoration bent! 
The very air so loudly crying seemed to pause 
In horror of the darkly contemplated deed; 
But, lo! before the venomed instrument had sped 
From murderous hand, a frightful spirit form arose 
From out the night, protecting arms extending o'er. 
Its face was wrung by sufferings dark and terrible, 
And in its eyes a look of piteous terror burned; 
With ill contending for the mortal one it seemed. 
But 'twas too late; the dart had sped, the deed was 

done. 
And hideously warring elements resumed 
The battle diabolic in the shrieking air. 

Departing, Winnemoca ran in agony 

Bewailing, through the stormy night: ** My God, 

forgive 
What I have done this night, forgive my treacherous 

deed. 
For I was mad with grief and knew not what I did; 
Forgive my ignorance, and look in mercy dowHj 

54 



OPHIEL 

In mercy down on me. Have pity, O my God, 
Have pity on thy cliild! Forgive my loathsome 

crime ! 
Thou hearest me not, and I, upon the brink of Hell, 
See everlasting fire that rages close at hand. 
To torture wicked souls. O, help; for now I fall — 
Sweet Mother of my God, thou Lady pure and fair. 
In pity help ! for never yet have I to thee 
Implored in vain ! O, save me from a sinful death ! 
In mercy now I feel protecting light around. 
And darkly flee the evil, unseen torturers. 
From death deliver me, and I will give my life 
To thee forever, only save me from the night." 

In gloomy tent where burned a low and flickering 

light. 
In moaning supplication, Tuscawilla knelt 
For one who late had passed the bounds of life and 

death. 
In snowy robe with girdle bound, she turned her 

eyes. 
With weeping vigils scarce unbroken, sad and dark. 
Upon intruding one, unceremoniously. 
Who, entering, wildly flung himself upon the ground 
Prostrate, then slowly rose and gasped: "He has 

been slain. 
O, come and see what I have done! O, traitor's 

deed! 
Kanapahate's demon hand has struck him down to 

death. 
By me betrayed into his wicked, bloody hand; 
And even now he crouches as a panther wild. 
To spring upon its prey. By fire and tomahawk 
This night are lost all those who will not turn from 

God." 

55 



O P H I E L 

Amazed and speechless, Tuscawilla rose and sped 
In darkness, thinking only of the dying one. 

With hasty genuflection entering, she saw 

The mystic, holy flame yet burning peacefully. 

Sebastian lay with loving eyes fixed tenderly 

On crucifix above, so calm and beautiful; 

No torturing pain his solemn outstretched form had 

racked ; 
But, silently and white, he lay as bruised flower; 
And, bending down, the maiden heard him whisper 

low: 
" My daughter, bring to me the Holy Mystery, 
Imprisoned in the altar's tabernacle high. 
Misguided demon hands must not defile my God." 
With care and tenderly obeyed the virgin maid. 
While Winnemoca bowed in agony and fear: 
" Forgive me, father, for the evil I have done ; 
Into the hands of ancient enemy this night 
Have I betrayed my countrymen and caused thy 

death ; 
Destruction swift encompasseth thy little flock." 

As heavenly music to the dying ear, replied 
Sebastian tenderly : " My son, God knows thy 

heart. 
And I forgive thee if thou'rt truly penitent ; " 
Then partly rose, the blood descending from his 

heart. 
Removed from sacred chalice, held by kneeling maid. 
The priceless gift of God to undeserving man. 
Consuming which he sank upon the altar stair, 
By weakness overcome, expiring peacefully. 
But O what sounds arose above the howling wind! 
What piteous cries ascending cleaved the bitter sky: 

56 



OPHIEL 

" O God, the foe is come, the wolves are in thy 

flock! 
Now help thy unprotected ! Let Thy mercy fall 
On those who trust in Thee ! " The frantic cries 

ascend : 
" For, gracious God, in Thee we trusted, — save us 

now." 
Thus fleeing to the house of God, they wildly came. 
And found before the silent, empty altar white 
Sebastian lying still and cold, and peaceful quite. 

The wild and dreadful wind was shrieking fright- 

fully. 
As many howling demons in the air that cry 
Ubsatiated, for the blood of innocents; 
But o'er the elements uprose the hideous cry 
Of many Indian warriors, seeking for their prey; 
And at its sound increasing, Tuscawilla rose. 
Upon the altar stair above the silent one. 
And stood before the terror-stricken throng with 

cry: 
" My people, courage ! God is guiding with His 

hand; 
He'll not forsake us now in dire necessity. 
Let all before His altar kneel; their wailing cease; 
Their souls to Him who gave them life now rec- 
ommend ; 
For God is near. I hear His holy, solemn voice 
A welcome bidding to His mansions in the sky. 
He early calls you home. Be not afraid to go; 
But lift no hand, unarmed and helpless as thou art. 
For unavailing would it fall. Rely on God. 

" Behold, through yonder doorway flames are leap- 
ing red 

57 



OPHIEL 

And wildly blown tempestuous^ fearful winds of 

night. 
Lo, by the enemies our homes in ruin are laid! 
Almighty God, protect, avenge the innocent, 
And save Thy faithful from the power of the dogs ! " 
As louder roared the storm, ere long the wooden door. 
Unbarred, and held by Winnemoca's youthful arm. 
Gave way before the rush of many trampling feet; 
But, for a moment, in the way the brave youth stood, 
As if to shield with flesh and blood the faithful 

throng. 
His holy face was wondrous, calm and beautiful. 
Like those released from chains of hideous punish- 
ment. 
To death swiftly he fell by bloody tomahawk. 
Expiring on the threshold of the little church. 
Then cry on cry arose to God from faithful lips. 
With curses mingled of the frenzied murderers. 



Unseen, above the altar Ophiel had stood 
And calmly down upon the scene in sorrow gazed. 
As one who sees on mournful Autumn day the leaves 
From swaying branches by the heartless wind de- 
tached 
And down upon the saddened earth in fury cast. 
As one by one he marked the faithful swiftly slain. 
He saw above the murderers a ghastly throng 
Of hovering forms resembling his, that seemed to 

guide, 
With hideous demon hands, the bloody tomahawks. 
At last before the altar Tuscawilla lay 
Unmurdered only of the throng, prostrate and low. 
With dreadful face, Kanapahate, foremost, paused 
And laid his bloody hands upon her virgin form, 

5S 



OPHIEL 

Who though no murderous hand or cruel stone had 

touched 
Was lifeless, and in wonder Ophiel had seen 
Her soul upborne by angel hands amongst the slain. 

But now before him stood the enemy of God, 

In scorn, deliberation, Satan pausing there: 

" Why art thou here ? " he thundered, fierce and 

ominous, 
" Why dost in battle idly stand and seem to guard 
The dwelling-place of Him who authorized my ruin. 
No other hand this night opposes me but thine; 
Wherefore begone, to darkest suffering place in 

HeU, 
To burn until this mighty hand shall choose to free." 
" Thou, Satan," Ophiel replied disdainfully, 
" This night thy cruel hand has slain the only one 
Who ever prayed for me on earth, and whom I loved ; 
Who, through the endless dreary years so filled with 

strife. 
Since I with thee was cast headlong from Paradise, 
Has been the only mortal one who plead with me 
From thine allegiance, terrible, to change. 
And serve again the One who loved me long ago. 

" For me a hope he has advanced like morning star 
Which darkly gleams in far off, dread and blood red 

sky: 
Behold this cross of gold and flee, for God is near, — 
Thy work is done, for thee my battles are no more." 
At this, with angry cry, the demon shrank and fled 
With horde of warriors, mortal and demoniac. 
One instant pausing an inconstant flame to light 
By dread Kanapahate's hand that, soon increasing 

red^ 

59 



OPHIEL 

In swift destruction wrapped with deep and lurid fire 
The little holy church by loving hands upreared; 
The flaming roof and crumbling walls were one by 

one 
Cast on the lifeless and the bloody forms below, 
Consuming martyred flesh and blood of holy ones 
As thirsty rays of noonday sun through golden mist 
On radiant blue and smiling tropic lake descend. 

In crumbling ruin the holy altar partly fell 
And buried with its heaping stones Sebastian's form 
Of clay and also Indian maiden's lying near; 
But still the golden cross on highest stone stood firm. 
Remaining thus for many swiftly passing years, 
A gleaming monument to those who earthly lay 
In ashes dark beneath, unscattered by the wind. 
Consuming, blown, the wild and diabolic flames 
Ran up the ancient, tall, majestic tree of pine. 
Which, bending low in terror of the frenzied wind. 
In human and heartbroken agony had groaned. 
Soon branch and heart consumed by red and 

ravenous flame 
With mighty crash it fell and lay on smouldering 

ruin. 
Expiring with those mortals where it long had lived. 
At dawn, when bloody sun arose o'er smoking scene, 
In silence all and chilly atmosphere of death. 



60 



XI 

" Alone save for the distant tranquil stars above. 
And cold white mockery of dark mysterious moon ; 
Below, the speechless horror of the mortal dead 
Yet smouldering in the ruin of Satan's demon horde. 
Why do the waters of the lily-bordered lake 
Reflect so peacefully the grandeur of the skies 
When slowly creeping down to mingle with its flood 
A stream of red issues from smouldering pyre above ? 
Alone — how often have I taunted him who lies 
Bene^h the heavy fallen stone and ashes here, 
With that unwelcome thought in dismal meaning 

clothed, 
And watched the mournful shadows fall unbidden on 
His white and holy face; then, flee unwillingly. 
As swiftly o'er his brow and lips and tender heart 
A holy sign was made in trusting confidence; 
And murmuring, gently said : * How can I be alone 
When God is ever near to love and bless His child/ 

" Alone save for the mournful wind among the trees 
That lately blew in storm, but almost silent now! 
Is this the place so calm where many mortals dwelt? 
Where but this night the dark and cruel fiends below 
Unchecked rained their fury on the innocent? 
Now all are gone, and I am fallen, desolate, 
And seek in vain for those I love among the dead. 
O, days forever vanished now, come back again! 
Could I but see the fair white face of him I loved 
As I saw him smiling sweetly, for me praying 

61 



OPHIEL 

While I his ruin each fleeting moment strove to gain ! 

Why do I linger here alone where little ones 

Of earth so quietly lived and bravely fought and 

died? 
Below for me vile Satan's banquet hall prepared 
And demons gathered for the feast of torture are 
In dread impatience waiting for their victim here. 

" How can I serve the one who this destruction 

wrought ? 
Or bow before that dark, unhappy, heartless one 
Who tortured down to death the little ones I loved, 
But knew it not until they all have gone afar? — 
Forever gone to blissful state beyond the skies. 
O, once I dwelt in stately halls of purity! 
And now to them again my heart is turning strong, 
For those were joyous days, when He who made me 

smiled. 
And I, in radiant glory, dwelt His little child. 
Sometimes with him whose earthly form lies still 

below 
I caught the joyous echo of those mansions fair. 
O little one, who pitying loved and prayed for me. 
Whose swift and fleeting life I strove in vain to 

wreck, 
I'll follow thee: O God, Whom I rebelled against, 
Ages before the earth was morning star, I come: 
Can Thy forgiving mercy fall on such a one? 

" I hear from realms below the cries of Satan now. 
Tempestuous as storm's hoarse voice on rock-bound 

shore. 
My God, I fly to Thee; accept my penitence. 
Dread Satan's servitude forever I renounce. 
Henceforth all Thine to be, such penance to endure 

62 



OPHIEL 

As will induce Thy clemency to grant release 
From this regretted state, too late from which I 

wake. 
Am I then less than earth-born children who rebel 
And through their sufferings are restored to Thee, 

forgiven ? 
Is there no hope for those who burn in deepest Hell, 
Who lift their broken cries in agony to Thee, 
Enduring through the ages countless punishments 
Awaiting those who sin. Thy holy will transgress? 
O, let me enter in the way prepared for such as I! 
The worst which might befall will be but gain to me, 
If at the end I see Thy beauteous face again." 



63 



JUL 31 ,^SIH 



One copy del. to Cat. Div. 



JliJ ?1 i9rf 



